10 TIPS FOR BETTER PET PHOTOS
Your furkids are a major part of your family! And as a part of your family you spend a lot of time taking photographs of them to share with friends online or to frame and display at home.
Taking great photos of your pets can be quite a challenge, so I’ve put together these 10 Pet Photography Tips that will hopefully you give a better chance at capturing that winning shot of your beloved best buddy.
1. Use Natural Light
If you can find a location with natural light try to make the most of it rather than using flash. Your images will look more natural, it’s easier to focus, you avoid the dreaded “red-eyed monster” and you won’t scare the crappers out of your little mate.
Built-in flashes on most cameras (especially mobile phones) can be extremely over-powering and usually don’t deliver great results. So if you can, either head outside or use a room with natural window light to get the best results.
2. Focus on the Eyes
Keep your camera’s focus trained on the eyes of your subject. “Eyes are the windows to the soul” and your pet’s expressive eyes can tell the most incredible stories.
If your pet is not facing you square-on focus in on the eye that’s closest to the camera. An image that has sharp focus on the eyes gives the viewer an immediate connection with the subject.
3. Get on their Level
A great way to help your photos stand out is to change your perspective. Everyone has pics of their pet viewed from our normal sitting or standing position and they start to look the same after a while.
This is how we normally see our little buddies. It’s much more interesting to take your photos from your pet’s point of view - see the world through their eyes! Lay on your tummy or stand beneath them if they’re above you on a balcony or deck. Shoot at or below their eye level for a completely different perspective.
4. Bribery
We all know that most (if not ALL) pets are motivated by their bellies. Use their favourite treat to grab and hold their attention for a photo.
Don’t forget to give it to them if they’ve cooperated for you! If food isn’t their motivation try using their favourite toy or a ball to grab their attention.
5. Capture their UNIQUE Character
You know your pet better than anyone else, and a successful picture is one that conveys the character of its subject.
If you have a lazy cat show them yawning, if your furkid is playful show them in action, playing or performing their favourite trick.
6. Get up close
Zoom in and fill the frame with your pet’s face and fur.
Close up shots often make for an image full of character and expression.
7. The Element of Surprise
One of the most difficult things is to get your pet to hold still long enough to pose for a photo. An easy trick is to let them play quietly and, once you have everything ready, whistle or make a strange noise.
This will surprise them and capture their attention and you will have a few seconds to capture your pet with a very cute look on their face. If you are lucky enough to get a ‘head tilt’ even better!
8. Schedule your Session
If you are aiming for a formal pet portrait, try to schedule the photo session when your furkid is sleepy or has just woken up. It will be much easier to get them to hold a pose for you.
If you want a more dynamic shot choose a time when your pet is more energetic.
9. Be Patient
Pet photography requires a lot of patience.
No matter how excited your furry friend is, if you are patient enough, they will end up relaxing and you will have the opportunity to get a great shot.
10. Experiment
Take your time and enjoy the session, try different approaches, angles and compositions.
Play, have fun with your best friend and capture memories that you will treasure!
